New Timeline Issued For Key Bridge Reconstruction

BALTIMORE, MD — In an effort to fast-track the new Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Maryland Transportation Authority has revealed it will be splitting the construction into four contracts.

The MTA says the strategic shift will boost competition while providing more opportunities for the local workforce.

The first contract will cover demolition and some marine work over the Patapsco River; the second and third contracts will focus on the construction of the south and north land approaches.

The final and most complex piece of the reconstruction will be for the 1,665-foot cable-stayed main span and marine approaches. This portion of the project comes with an estimated $3.5 billion to $4 billion price tag, making it the most costly point of the project.

Related:

• Key Bridge Collapse: Where Do Things Stand 2 Years Later?
• Criminal Charges Filed Against Dali Operator
• MD Axes Builder For Key Bridge, Potentially Delaying Project

Invitations for the first contract will open this summer, with the second and third contractors to be selected by the winter. The anticipated start time for the first project is sometime in the fall.

Although construction work for the last leg isn't likely to start until next year, the MTA says it is aiming to request qualifications from firms beginning this summer.

The adjustment comes after the state parted ways last month with Kiewit, one of the largest U.S. construction and engineering companies.

Kiewit is expected to continue work through at least the end of 2026 for projects it was previously contracted to do during the first phase of the build. That contract includes permanent foundation piles and building a trestle.